A good gift for a teenager is one they would have picked themselves. Teens know what they like and notice quickly when a gift misses, so the safest choices are the things they use every day, like music and games, or something that gives them a new thing to make or somewhere to go.
What teens really want
Ask, or look. What do they play, listen to and watch? Which console or phone do they use? A video game needs to match their console, and some gifts only work with the right phone, so a quick check saves a return.
Give them room to make it their own. Something creative, like a camera or a kit to build, suits a teen who likes to make things, while something practical for getting around suits one who is always out with friends. If you're unsure, gift cards aren't the only answer: a good pair of earbuds is hard to get wrong.
Before you choose, ask yourself
- Which console or phone do they use?
- Do they spend more time gaming, making things or out with friends?
- Is there a game or series they're into right now?
Gift ideas for teens
Sound
Music goes everywhere with most teens. Wireless earbuds suit school and the bus, a Bluetooth speaker suits their room or a day at the beach, and a gaming headset suits the one who plays online with friends.
Games
For the gamer. A is easy to get right once you know their console, a suits a collector, and a board game gets them round the table with friends or family.
Making things
For the creative teen. A STEM electronics kit suits the one who likes to know how things work, an suits someone who likes to capture moments, and a suits a teen who draws or paints.
Out and about
For the teen who is never home. A goes to school, sport and the beach, a pair of suits summer, and a watch is a grown-up gift for an older teen.
Christmas gifts for teens
Buying for Christmas? See our Christmas gift ideas.